Shotline Diving

Connecting You to the Depths of the Great Lakes

Keuka (A. Stewart and H.J. McAvoy) US 106644

Explore the intriguing wreck of the Keuka, a former floating dance hall, now a popular dive site in Lake Charlevoix, Michigan.

Shotline Diving Wreck Profile

  • Name: Keuka
  • Type: Schooner Barge
  • Year Built: 1889
  • Builder:
  • Dimensions: Length: 172 ft (52.4 m); Width: 32 ft (9.8 m); Depth: 12 ft (3.7 m)
  • Registered Tonnage:
  • Depth at Wreck Site: 15.2 m / 50 ft
  • Location: Lake Charlevoix, near Boyne City, Michigan
  • Official Number: 106644
  • Number of Masts: None remaining at the site

Wreck Location Map

Vessel Type

The Keuka was originally a schooner barge, a vessel designed to transport bulk goods while being towed by a steam-powered ship. These vessels were commonly used on the Great Lakes during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Description

The Keuka was built in 1889 and initially named A. Stewart, later renamed H.J. McAvoy, and finally Keuka. Throughout its career, it served as a cargo carrier on the Great Lakes. By the time of its sinking in 1932, it had been repurposed as a floating dance hall, reflecting a shift from industrial use to leisure activities.

The sinking of the Keuka in Lake Charlevoix, near Boyne City, Michigan, is surrounded by mystery. Speculation includes structural failure, possible scuttling, or other circumstances tied to its use as an entertainment venue. There were no reported casualties.

History

The wreck lies in 50 ft (15.2 m) of water in Lake Charlevoix, a tributary of Lake Michigan.

Significant Incidents

  • The hull remains largely intact, although the masts and other deck fittings are missing.
  • The site is notable for its accessibility and local folklore surrounding its history as a dance hall before sinking.
  • The wreck has become a popular site for divers, offering both historical interest and a unique underwater experience.

Final Disposition

The Keuka wreck site is well-known and frequently visited by divers in Lake Charlevoix. It has been featured in regional historical studies and diving guides, highlighting its unique story and cultural significance.

Current Condition & Accessibility

The site’s depth makes it suitable for recreational divers. Visibility can vary, and divers are encouraged to approach with care to avoid disturbing the wreck. As a significant historical artifact, the site is protected, and removal of artifacts is prohibited.

Resources & Links

As you explore the Keuka, remember to leave only bubbles and take only memories. Be the diver that makes a difference by respecting this historical site and its surroundings.